Medical, Demographic, and Epidemiological Characteristics of Populations in Uranium Biogeochemical Zones and the Role of Primary Health Care (Literature Review)

This literature review collects and systematizes data from domestic and international scientific publications examining the medical, demographic, and epidemiological characteristics of the population living in uranium biogeochemical zones and providing primary health care in these areas. It has been established that uranium biogeochemical zones are characterized by long-term persistence of radiation and chemical contamination, creating chronic low-dose exposure to humanity through the "water-soil-food-human" ecological chain. Long-term residence in uranium-contaminated environments leads to changes in the stage of manifestation and initial incidence, increases the incidence of chronic noncommunicable diseases, oncologic pathologies, and reproductive health problems, as well as slowed demographic trends. The literature emphasizes the increased vulnerability of children and women of reproductive age, which prioritizes prevention and medical monitoring for evidence. It is noted that primary healthcare plays a key role in the early detection of health conditions, gradual, routine monitoring, and public health education. However, an analysis of scientific sources revealed a discrepancy between environmental risk factors and the existing organizational capacity of primary healthcare, indicating insufficient coverage of preventive measures, the formalized nature of routine monitoring, and risk-based approaches. It is concluded that primary healthcare in uranium biogeochemical zones needs to be optimized based on a systemic, preventive, risk-oriented, and risk-stratified approach.